120 MACWORLD AUGUST 2021
PLAYLIST REVIEW: FOCAL RADIANCErear wave from the center of the motor to
avoid compression and extend the low-
frequency response—in other words, this
is a bass-reflex headphone! At the other
end of the sonic spectrum, EVA (ethylene-
vinyl acetate) foam behind the drivers
absorbs excess high-frequency energy.
Finally, acoustic diffusers break up any
standing waves and make the earcups
more rigid and inert.
While the earcups use the same
design, Focal took a different approach in
the tuning of the Radiance. According to
the company, the new headphone has
more bass and a bit more treble—
apparently, the classic “smile” EQ curve—
and it’s warmer than the Elegia. Also, it is
said to have very wide dynamic range.
As I said in my Stellia review, even the
packaging is noteworthy. A large, sturdy box
includes the headphone and cable in their
rigid, woven-cover case that, in this instance,
sparkles with copper and black threads, and
the Bentley logo adorns the handle.PERFORMANCE
Putting the Radiance on my
head, it felt identical to the
Stellia—same large earpads
that fit easily over my large
ears, good acoustic seal,
and low clamping pressure.
And the leather earpads
were super comfortable.
As usual, I listened to
tracks from Tidal’s Master
high-res audio library
playing from my iPhone XSViewed in cross section, the driver diaphragm
resembles an “M,” which Focal says improves
its rigidity.Even the packaging is quite impressive.